“What frustrates me is we execute a game plan in parts, but we let our standards slip." - Coventry City's Russell Slade

11 February 2017

Laura Hunter

Sky Blues boss left frustrated by the inconsistencies in his side's performance, as Oldham claim three vital league points...

The City boss gave an impassioned interview in the aftermath of the narrow defeat to Oldham, suggesting that his side need to appreciate the basics better if they are to earn league points.

Kwame Thomas scored on his return to the first team, while Marcus Tudgay netted a superb equaliser in the first-half, but City were left empty handed after conceding three away goals.

Russell Slade said: “I thought we were the better sides in parts, created chances but at the end of the day we conceded three goals.

“What frustrates me is we execute a game plan in parts, but we let our standards slip. Lack of appreciation for the basics at times, it is quite incredible. The third goal, we didn’t lay a glove on him.

“I don’t get why players can’t see that, we’ve played some good stuff. Great second goal, five minutes of madness and we’re 3-1 down. Fine decisions haven’t been going our way.”

He continued: “Keep it tight, the header could get us on level terms. Should Reice do better? Yes. But a bit of a nudge on him. We started the second-half well, then give away a sloppy free-kick.

“Two opportunities to clear the ball, we can’t do it. We have to deal with it. What frustrates me is we play to a decent standard in pockets of play, but we let it slip. It is a mental weakness.

“We were unlucky not to score four goals today. Camped in their box for the last five minutes. We have to be more consistent, you can’t do this job part-time. It is relentless, ruthless. We have to be brave and bold.”